Apparatus and method to feed livestock

ABSTRACT

A method and apparatus for feeding livestock is presented. The method includes providing a mobile feed preparation apparatus that includes a feed container containing a base feed, a conveying assembly that receives the base feed from the feed container, a feed additive assembly comprising a reservoir containing a feed additive, where the feed additive assembly is in flowable communication with the conveying assembly, a weight sensitive platform having a weigh cell, where the reservoir is mounted on said platform, and a controller in communication with the conveying assembly and the weigh cell. The method further includes weighing the reservoir to determine a first weight, dispensing from the mobile feed preparation apparatus a feed ration, and weighing the reservoir to determine a second weight. Additionally, the method includes calculating a distributed amount of the feed additive using the first weight and the second weight.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to a U.S. Non-Provisional Applicationhaving Ser. No. 12/181,203, which was filed on Jul. 28, 2008, and a U.S.Non-Provisional Application having Ser. No. 12/692,494, which was filedon Jan. 22, 2010, which claimed priority from a United StatesProvisional Application filed on Jul. 26, 2007 and having Ser. No.60/952,210, all of which is incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1A illustrates a prior art apparatus to feed livestock. Apparatus100 comprises cab portion 102 and trailer assembly 105. In certainembodiments, powered unit 102 and trailer 105 comprise an integralmanufacture.

Trailer assembly 105 comprises feed container 110 and delivery assembly120 disposed therein. Referring now to FIGS. 1A and 1B, feed 150 isdisposed in feed container 110 and is gravity fed into delivery assembly120. In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1A and 1B, delivery assembly120 comprises a first auger 130 and a second auger 140. In otherembodiments, delivery assembly 120 may comprise a single auger. In stillother embodiments, delivery assembly 120 comprises more than 2 augers.In certain embodiments, multiple augers may operate in acounter-rotating fashion.

Referring now to FIGS. 1C and 1D, apparatus 100/105 is disposed adjacentto a livestock feeding site and positioned such that feed trailer 105 isdisposed adjacent to feed bunk 170. Side 190 of feed trailer 105 isformed to include aperture 180. Delivery assembly 120 is energized, andfeed 150 is transferred from feed container 110, through aperture 180,across chute 160 and into feed bunk 170. In some instances, the size ofaperture 180 is adjustable by means of operable door to regulate feed150 flow.

The prior art apparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, can deliver the samefeed formulation to a plurality of feeding locations. However, differentformulations cannot be delivered to different locations with the sameload of feed 150.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Applicants' invention comprises a method of feeding livestock. Themethod includes providing a mobile feed preparation apparatus thatincludes a feed container containing a base feed, a conveying assemblythat receives the base feed from the feed container, a feed additiveassembly comprising a reservoir containing a feed additive, where thefeed additive assembly is in flowable communication with the conveyingassembly, a weight sensitive platform having a weigh cell, where thereservoir is mounted on said platform, and a controller in communicationwith the conveying assembly and the weigh cell. The method furtherincludes weighing the reservoir to determine a first weight, dispensingfrom the mobile feed preparation apparatus a feed ration, and weighingthe reservoir to determine a second weight. Finally, the method includescalculating a distributed amount of the feed additive using the firstweight and the second weight.

The invention further comprises a method of feeding livestock. Themethod includes providing a mobile feed preparation apparatus having afeed container containing a base feed therein, a conveying assembly thatreceives a first quantity of the base feed from the feed container, afeed additive assembly comprising a reservoir containing a feed additivetherein, a spray nozzle, where the spray nozzle is in flowableconnection with the feed additive assembly and the conveying assembly,and a controller in communication with the conveying assembly and thefeed additive assembly. The method further includes disposing the firstquantity of the base feed from the feed container into the conveyingassembly, spraying, using the spray nozzle, the first quantity of thebase feed with a second quantity of the feed additive, and dispensingfrom the mobile feed preparation apparatus the first quantity of thebase feed in combination with the second quantity of the feed additive.

The invention further comprises a mobile feed preparation apparatus,having a feed container for storing a base feed therein, a conveyingassembly that receives a first quantity of the base feed from said feedcontainer, and a feed additive assembly comprising a reservoir forstoring a feed additive therein, where the feed additive assembly is inflowable connection with the conveying assembly. Additionally, themobile feed preparation apparatus includes a controller in communicationwith the conveying assembly and the feed additive assembly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be better understood from a reading of the followingdetailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings in whichlike reference designators are used to designate like elements, and inwhich:

FIGS. 1A-1D illustrate prior art apparatus;

FIG. 2A schematically depicts one embodiment of Applicants' feedpreparation apparatus;

FIG. 2B schematically depicts a second embodiment of Applicants' feedpreparation apparatus;

FIG. 2C schematically depicts a third embodiment of Applicants' feedpreparation apparatus;

FIG. 3 illustrates a pressurized discharge unit embodiment ofApplicants' feed preparation apparatus;

FIG. 4 schematically depicts a controller of the invention;

FIG. 5 schematically depicts a database aspect of the invention;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing additional components of one or morefeed additive assemblies disposed in the feed preparation apparatus ofFIG. 2A or FIG. 2B;

FIG. 7A is a block diagram of an exemplary feed additive preparationsystem according to Applicants' invention;

FIG. 7B is a block diagram of another exemplary feed additivepreparation system according to Applicants' invention;

FIG. 8 depicts an embodiment of a spray nozzle assembly of Applicants'feed preparation apparatus; and

FIG. 9 depicts an embodiment of a static mixer assembly of Applicants'feed preparation apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

This invention is described in preferred embodiments in the followingdescription with reference to the Figures, in which like numbersrepresent the same or similar elements. Reference throughout thisspecification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar languagemeans that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic describedin connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodimentof the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in oneembodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout thisspecification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the sameembodiment.

The described features, structures, or characteristics of the inventionmay be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Inthe following description, numerous specific details are recited toprovide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. Oneskilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the inventionmay be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or withother methods, components, materials, and so forth. In other instances,well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown ordescribed in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.

A U.S. Non-Provisional Application having Ser. No. 12/181,203, which wasfiled on Jul. 28, 2008, is hereby incorporated by reference herein. AU.S. Non-Provisional Application having Ser. No. 12/692,494, which wasfiled on Jan. 22, 2010, is hereby incorporated by reference herein. AUnited States Provisional Application filed on ______ and having Ser.No. ______ is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

The prior art apparatus of FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D, does not permitvariations of a feed formulation. What is needed is a mobile apparatusthat can provide a plurality of feed formulations at a plurality offeeding locations.

Applicants' apparatus, and method using that apparatus, provides aplurality of feed formulations at a plurality of feeding locations, logsthe actual amounts and formulations provided, and optionally generatesan alert if an actual delivered quantity differs from a pre-set targetquantity, and/or if an actual delivered feed formulation differs from apre-set target feed formulation.

Applicants' apparatus can be disposed on either the exterior or interiorof a prior art feed trailer 105. In the alternative, Applicants'apparatus can be incorporated into a new article of manufacture.

FIG. 2A illustrates Applicants' assembly 200. In the illustratedembodiment of FIG. 2A, Applicants' assembly 200 comprises auger assembly210, motor 220, a first measurement device 252, second measurementdevice 254, third measurement device 256, fourth measurement device 258,fifth measurement device 255, sixth measurement device 257, seventhmeasurement device 259, first feed additive assembly 270, second feedadditive assembly 280, third feed additive assembly 290, feed additivemanifold 378, spray assembly 398, and controller 400.

Auger assembly 210 conveys feed 150 to the vicinity of spray assembly398, wherein one or more of Feed Additive “A”, and/or Feed Additive “B”,and/or Feed Additive “C,” are sprayed onto feed 150. Feed 150, havingbeen treated with one or more of Feed Additive “A”, and/or Feed Additive“B”, and/or Feed Additive “C,” is then dropped into exit chute 236extending outwardly from Applicants' mobile feed preparation apparatus.In certain embodiments, Feed Additives A, B, and C, are selected fromthe group consisting of a beta-agonist, a vitamin, a parasiticide, anantibiotic, a probiotic, a growth promoter, an estrus suppressant, anionophore, a microbial, an antimicrobial, a nutritional supplement, alarvicide, a mineral, any other feed supplement, or any combinationthereof. Motor 220 is interconnected with, and controlled by, controller400 via communication link 225.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2A feed additive assembly 270comprises conduit 271, reservoir 272, valve 274, conduit 276, andcommunication link 278. Conduit 276 interconnects valve 274 and feedadditive manifold 378. Communication link 278 interconnects valve 274and controller 400. In certain embodiments, valve 274 comprises atotalizer, wherein that totalizer determines the amount, either inweight or volume, of Feed Additive Composition A passing through valve274. In these embodiments, the amount of Feed Additive Composition Aadded to the feed is communicated to controller 400 via communicationlink 278.

Feed additive assembly 280 comprises conduit 281, reservoir 282, valve284, conduit 286, and communication link 288. Conduit 286 interconnectsvalve 284 and feed additive manifold 378. Communication link 288interconnects valve 284 and controller 400. In certain embodiments,valve 284 comprises a totalizer, wherein that totalizer determines theamount, either in weight or volume, of Feed Additive Composition Bpassing through valve 284. In these embodiments, the amount of FeedAdditive Composition B added to the feed is communicated to controller400 via communication link 288.

Feed additive assembly 290 comprises conduit 291, reservoir 292, valve294, conduit 296, and communication link 298. Conduit 296 interconnectsvalve 294 and feed additive manifold 378. Communication link 298interconnects valve 294 and controller 400. In certain embodiments,valve 294 comprises a totalizer, wherein that totalizer determines theamount, either in weight or volume, of Feed Additive Composition Cpassing through valve 294. In these embodiments, the amount of FeedAdditive Composition C added to the feed is communicated to controller400 via communication link 298.

Conduits 276, 286, and 296, interconnect with feed additive manifold378. Spray assembly 398 is attached to one end of feed additive manifold378. FIG. 8 depicts an embodiment of spray assembly 398. Turning to FIG.8, in certain embodiments, spray assembly 398 comprises main input 360and sub inputs 362A, 362B, and 362C. In such embodiments, a feedadditive may be mixed with water or one or more other liquids or solidswithin spray assembly 398 and are sprayed on the feed base. In suchembodiments, the feed additive may be a liquid or a solid and may beinjected into an air stream and then input into to spay assembly 398 viamain input 360 or one of sub inputs 362A, 362B, or 362C. Water, one ormore other liquids or solids, or another additive may also input intospray assembly 398 via main input 360 or one of sub inputs 362A, 362B,or 362C. Spray assembly 398 then sprays the resulting mixture onto abase feed.

In certain embodiments, base 366 of spray assembly 398 is veined, asillustrated by veins 364A, 364B, and 364C, to assist in directing thespray of the feed additive mixture as it leaves spray assembly 398. Incertain embodiments, spray assembly 398 further comprises rubber flap368 to further direct the spray of the feed additive mixture and tospread out the feed base such that it is evenly sprayed with the feedadditive mixture.

Returning to FIG. 2A, in certain embodiments, valves 274, 284, and 294,comprise computer operable proportional valves, shutoff valves, anddischarge flow meters located inline with conduits 276, 286, and 296 toregulate the dispensing rate and measure the amount of feed additivecomposition dispersed.

In certain embodiments, valves 274, 284, and 294, each comprises a feedscrew, such as and without limitation an auger as described hereinbelow,to feed or meter out the feed additive composition. In such embodiments,the rate at which the feed additive is dispensed can be adjusted byadjusting the feed screw speed. In certain embodiments, the feed screwspeed comprises a rate of rotation. In certain embodiments, the feedscrew speed comprises a rate of movement of a powder/particles over adefined time interval.

In certain embodiments, feed additive assemblies 270, 280, and 290further may be mounted on one or more load cells for the purpose offeeding via loss-of-weight methods or for calibration of feed rate speedfor metering of feed additives.

Referring now to FIG. 2B, in certain applications the feed additive orfeed additive suspension is sprayed directly onto feed 150 as feed 150exits the Applicants' mobile feed preparation apparatus via exit chute236. In certain embodiments, the feed 150 in combination with one ormore feed additives falls from a distal end of exit chute 236 and into afeed bunk.

Turning now to FIG. 2C, in certain embodiments, one or more of the feedadditive assemblies, such as feed additive assembly 870 and feedadditive assembly 880, dispense only dry feed additives. In suchembodiments, Applicants' assembly 800 may comprise feed additiveassembly 870, feed additive assembly 880, discharge assembly 830, funnel819, eductor 818, discharge line 820, spray assembly 398, and controller400.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2C, feed additive assembly 870comprises reservoir 872, conduit 871, motor 812, auger 810, andcommunication link 822. Communication link 822 interconnects motor 812and controller 400. In these embodiments, feed additive exitingreservoir 872 via conduit 871 is transported via auger 810 to funnel819, which dispenses the feed additive into eductor 818. In certainembodiments, auger 810 is at an incline. In certain embodiments, theincline is less than 90 (ninety) degrees. In certain embodiments, theincline is less than 45 (forty-five) degrees. At certain embodiments,the incline is between 10 (ten) degrees and (forty-five) degrees. Atcertain embodiments, the incline is between 20 (twenty) degrees and 25(twenty-five) degrees. As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skillin the art, by having auger 810 at an incline, Applicants assembly 800prevents the unwanted feeding of a feed additive due to vibration ormovement of Applicants' mobile feed preparation apparatus.

Similarly, feed additive assembly 880 comprises reservoir 882, conduit881, motor 816, auger 814, and communication link 824. Communicationlink 824 interconnects motor 816 and controller 400. In theseembodiments, feed additive exiting reservoir 882 via conduit 881 istransported via auger 814 to funnel 819, which dispenses the feedadditive into eductor 818. As also with auger 810, in certainembodiments, auger 814 is at an incline. In certain embodiments, theincline is less than 90 (ninety) degrees. In certain embodiments, theincline is less than 45 (forty-five) degrees. At certain embodiments,the incline is between 10 (ten) degrees and (forty-five) degrees. Atcertain embodiments, the incline is between 20 (twenty) degrees and 25(twenty-five) degrees. As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skillin the art, by having auger 810 at an incline, Applicants assembly 800prevents the unwanted feeding of a feed additive due to vibration ormovement of Applicants' mobile feed preparation apparatus.

As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, while FIG.2C depicts auger 810 and auger 814 transporting feed additives to funnel819 which then dispenses into a single eductor, eductor 818, in otherembodiments, auger 810 and auger 814 may transport feed to separateeductors. In such embodiments, after passing through the separateeductors, the feed additives may be combined prior to spray assembly398. In other embodiments, the feed additives may be combined withinspray assembly 398. In such embodiments, feed from a first educator mayflow into, for example, one of main input 360 or sub input 362A, 362B,or 362C (FIG. 8) while feed from a second educator flows into anotherinput 360 or sub input 362A, 362B, or 362C.

In certain embodiments, the speed and timing of auger 810 and/or auger814 is controlled by controller 400. As will be appreciated by one ofordinary skill in the art, the amount of feed additive delivered can bedetermined by the rate and time interval over which auger 810 and/orauger 814 dispenses a feed additive into eductor 818. In certainembodiments, an auger speed comprises a rate of rotation. In certainembodiments, an auger speed comprises a rate of movement of apowder/particles over a defined time interval. As those skilled in theart will appreciate, an auger dispensing rate is directly proportionalto an auger speed.

A pressurized carrier, being either a fluid or a gas, discharged fromdischarge assembly 830 enters eductor 818 via conduit 826 and transportsthe feed additive through discharge line 820 and spray assembly 398.Communication link 826 interconnects controller 400 and dischargeassembly 830, wherein controller 400 controls the flow of a pressurizedcarrier from discharge assembly 830 to eductor 818 via conduit 826.

Referring now to FIG. 6, in certain embodiments, one or more of feedadditive assemblies 270, 280, and/or 290, further comprises heaterassembly 372, agitator assembly 374, pressurized air reservoir 376,recirculation assembly 380, and feed additive inlet assembly 390. Theelements of feed additive assembly 270 illustrated in FIG. 6 may beimplemented within any one of feed additive assemblies 270, 280 and/or290 or feed additive assemblies 870 and/or 880.

In certain embodiments, heater assembly 372 comprises a heating tape. Incertain embodiments, heater assembly 372 comprises liquid-filled heatingtubes or lines. In certain embodiments, heater assembly 372 comprisesheating tape, and/or heating tubes, disposed within a thermallyinsulating blanket or material. In certain embodiments, heater assembly372 comprises an agent added to a feed additive, a feed additivecomposition, or a feed ingredient, where that agent depresses thefreezing point of the feed additive, feed additive composition, or feedingredient.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6, thermocouple 373 is disposedwithin reservoir 272. Communication link 391 interconnects thermocouple373 and controller 400. In certain embodiments, controller 400 adjuststhe heat supplied by heater assembly 372 based upon a temperaturereported to controller 400 by thermocouple 373. In certain embodiments,the heat is adjusted by controller 400 adjusting the current provided toone or more heating tapes disposed within heater assembly 372.

In certain embodiments, heater assembly 372 is activated to prevent afeed additive composition disposed within reservoir 272 from solidifyingin sub-freezing weather. In other embodiments, heater assembly 372 isused to reduce the viscosity of a feed additive composition disposed inreservoir 272. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, thetemperature dependence of viscosity can be complicated because manyfactors enter into determining the viscosity of a material or asolution. However, over small temperature intervals, from about 0degrees Celsius to about 60 degrees Celsius, plots of log (viscosity)vs. temperature in degrees Celsius are nearly linear, where viscosity isexpressed in centipoise.

As an example and without limitation, in certain embodiments Applicants'feed additive composition comprises an aqueoussolution/suspension/emulsion having a viscosity of between about 1 toabout 5 centipoise. A feed additive composition comprising such a lowviscosity is readily sprayable through spray assembly 398. However, thatfeed additive composition might run off/drip off a feed 150, andtherefore, not be effectively administered to livestock.

A thickening agent can be added to the afore-described 1-5 centipoiseaqueous feed additive composition to increase the viscosity. In certainembodiments, Applicants' feed additive composition comprises a viscosityof between about 150 to about 200 centipoise (consistency of maplesyrup). Such a 150 to 200 centipoise feed additive composition adhereswell to a base feed 150, however a rate of application of a 200centipoise feed additive composition through spray assembly 398, mightnot be optimal. In certain embodiments, Applicants' apparatus and methodheats a 200 centipoise feed additive composition to lower its viscosity.That heated feed additive composition is more readily dispensed throughspray assembly 398, than is the ambient-temperature feed additivecomposition. When the sprayed feed additive composition contacts theambient-temperature feed 150, the feed additive composition rapidlycools to ambient temperature and thickens, and as a result adheres wellto base feed 150 to form a uniform base feed/additive composition.

In certain embodiments, one or more feed additive assemblies 270, 280,and/or 290, further comprises feed additive inlet assembly 390. In theillustrated embodiment of FIG. 6, feed additive inlet assembly comprisescoupling 396 and inlet pressure sensor/gauge 399. In certainembodiments, inlet pressure sensor/gauge 399 indicates the pressure infeed additive input hose 392 is being used to convey a feed additivefrom an external tank into feed additive reservoir 272 via feed additiveinlet assembly 390. In certain embodiments, inlet pressure sensor/gauge399 is interconnected to controller 400 via communication link 386.

Coupling 396 can releasably mate with coupling 394 disposed on a distalend of feed additive input hose 392. In certain embodiments, coupling394 comprises an automatic cutoff valve, wherein that cutoff valvecloses if feed additive input hose 392 is pressurized and coupling 394separates from coupling 396. In certain embodiments, a unique couplingcombination 394/396 is used for each different feed additive assembly270, 280, and 290, such that a feed additive formulated in afacility/tank external to Applicants' feed truck assembly and selectedfor input into feed additive assembly 270 cannot be introduced into feedadditive assembly 280 or feed additive 290. Similarly, a feed additiveformulated in a facility/tank external to Applicants' feed truckassembly and selected for input into feed additive assembly 280 cannotbe introduced into feed additive assembly 270 or feed additive 290, anda feed additive formulated in a facility/tank external to Applicants'feed truck assembly and selected for input into feed additive assembly290 cannot be introduced into feed additive assembly 270 or feedadditive assembly 280.

In certain embodiments, feed additive assemblies 270, 280, and 290further comprise a pump to discharge a feed additive composition fromreservoirs 272, 282, and 292. In certain embodiments, feed additivereservoirs 272, 282, and 292 are pressurized such that a feed additivecomposition is dispensed under pressure via a spray assembly 398. Incertain embodiments, mobile feed preparation apparatus further comprisesa pressurized air reservoir 376, wherein that pressurized air reservoir376 is interconnected to a feed additive reservoir, such as feedadditive reservoir 272, via conduit 379 and regulator/relief valve 375.In certain embodiments, regulator/relief valve 375 is in communicationwith controller 400 via communication link 384. Controller 400 can causeregulator/relief valve 375 valve to release air pressure withinreservoirs 272, 282, and/or 292 for feed additive refilling.

A feed additive composition that is not soluble in a liquid carriercomprises a suspension or emulsion. Such a suspension/emulsion may“settle,” or “separate,” respectively, prior to being dispensed onto abase feed. Continuously or periodically agitating/mixing such asuspension/emulsion as necessary will ensure the correct mix ratio.

In certain embodiments, feed additive assemblies 270, 280, and 290further comprise an agitator assembly 374. In certain embodiments,agitator assembly 374 comprises a motor interconnected to a mixerdisposed within reservoir 272. In certain embodiments, agitator assembly374 comprises an ultrasonic mixing device.

In certain embodiments, a recirculation pump may be used, where the pumpcan be reversed or the valves redirected to force the suspension to flowthrough the dispensing lines to prevent the suspension from settling inthe lines. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6, recirculation outputport is connected to recirculation input port 383 via recirculation pump382 as necessary. Recirculation pump is interconnected to controller 400via communication link 389. Controller 400 can activate recirculationpump 382 to circulate the contents of feed additive reservoir 272outwardly from recirculation output port 381, through pump 382, and backinto feed additive reservoir 272 via recirculation input port 383.

In certain embodiments, a pump and a series of valves is used to agitatethe feed additive composition. In such embodiments a priorityproportional divider valve routes the flow of the feed additivecomposition back into a reservoir, such as reservoir 272, 282, or 292,for agitation and the desired dispensing flow is bled off the main flowas required to dispense the feed additive composition. In otherembodiments, multiple proportional valves are used, where the valves areset up to behave as a divider.

As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the viscosity of aNewtonian fluid is dependent only on temperature but not on shear rateand time. Examples of such Newtonian fluids include water, milk, sugarsolutions, and mineral oil. On the other hand, the viscosity of aNon-Newtonian fluid is dependent on temperature, shear rate, and time.Many of Applicants' feed additive compositions comprise shear thinning,Non-Newtonian fluids, wherein the viscosity decreases with increasedshear rate. In certain embodiments, Applicants' apparatus and methodheats a feed additive composition to a temperature above the ambienttemperature to modify its viscosity to optimize both sprayability andadherence to feed is described hereinabove.

As also described hereinabove, in certain embodiments Applicants'agitator assembly 374 comprises a motor interconnected to a mixerdisposed within reservoir 272. In these embodiments, Applicants'apparatus and method applies a shear force to a feed additivecomposition to lower the viscosity of that feed additive composition,and sprays that reduced-viscosity feed additive composition onto feed150 using spray assembly 398. In certain embodiments, Applicants' methodutilizes both heat and shear rate to adjust the viscosity of a feedadditive composition to optimize both sprayability and adherence of thatfeed additive composition.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 3, Applicants'apparatus comprises three feed additive assemblies and in FIG. 2C,Applicants' apparatus comprises two feed additive assemblies. In otherembodiments, Applicants' apparatus comprises more than three feedadditive assemblies. In still other embodiments, Applicants' apparatuscomprises fewer than three feed additive assemblies.

In certain embodiments, mixing assembly 210 is mounted on aweight-sensitive platform equipped with a weigh cell 252. In theseembodiments, the weigh cell output is integrated over short timeintervals to give a rate of flow and total flow.

In certain embodiments, measurement device 252 comprises a Doppler flowmeter. Doppler flow meters emit ultrasonic signals into a flow path. Touse the Doppler effect to measure flow in a pipe, one transducertransmits an ultrasonic beam into the mixing assembly 210. The movementof materials alters the frequency of the beam reflected onto a second,receiving transducer. The frequency shift is linearly proportional tothe rate of flow of materials, and therefore, can be used to develop ananalog or digital signal proportional to flow rate.

In certain embodiments, mixing assembly 210 or feed additive assembly270, 280, and 290 is/are mounted on one or more damped load cells. Thedamped load cell reduces some of the vibrations and load cell ‘ringing’caused by the moving vehicle and engine vibration. In certainembodiments, the damped load cell is further mounted to a bracketattached to the delivery vehicle using vibration isolation mounts or anyother type of mounts to counteract vibrations caused by the movingvehicle and engine vibration. In certain embodiments, one or moreaccelerometers or motion detectors are mounted on mixing assembly 210 orfeed additive assembly 270/280/290 or other suitable location to detectmotion in one or more directions. In certain embodiments, a gyroscope isemployed to monitor rotational movement and make any necessarycorrections. In certain embodiments, mixing assembly 210 is furtheraffixed to a gimbal mount to counteract the effects of motion on thescale.

In certain embodiments, measurement device 252 comprises weigh belts. Incertain embodiments, measurement device 252 comprises a mass flow meterincorporating ultrasonic signals, scintillation counters, or any othertype of flow measurement sensing equipment, or combination thereof. Incertain embodiments, measurement device 252 comprises pressuretransducers to measure weight or force.

In certain embodiments, measurement device 252 is further capable oftransmitting a current scale weight to controller 400. In suchembodiments, measurement device 252 may comprise a wirelesscommunication module, such as WI-FI, and may wirelessly transmit thecurrent scale weight to controller 400 for monitoring.

In certain embodiments, sensory information from devices such asaccelerometers, gyro meters, motion detectors, etc. as previouslydescribed is used to determine whether weight measurements are accurateenough for use or sensory information can be used to correct weightmeasurements for feed additives or for the feed container 110 where thefeed container 110 is mounted on load cells. In such embodiments,controller 400 may use the sensory information to determine the mass ofthe amount distributed. In other such embodiments, controller 400 usesweight calculation equations created using regression analysistechniques to produce one or more regression equations. In otherembodiments, controller 400 uses artificial intelligence techniques tocorrect the scale weight received. These correction techniques alsoapply to weight measurements taken in other locations, for example, inthe previously described embodiment where the feed additive assembly270/280/290 is mounted on one or more load cells or in the case wherefeed container 110 is mounted on load cells.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2A, mixing assembly 210 is furthermounted on a weight-sensitive platform equipped with a weigh cells 254,256, and 258. In these embodiments, each weigh cell output is integratedover short time intervals to give a rate of flow and total flow.

In certain embodiments, weigh cells 254, 256, and 258 comprise Dopplerflow meters. Doppler flow meters emit ultrasonic signals into a flowpath. To use the Doppler effect to measure flow in a pipe, onetransducer transmits an ultrasonic beam into the mixing assembly 210.The movement of materials alters the frequency of the beam reflectedonto a second, receiving transducer. The frequency shift is linearlyproportional to the rate of flow of materials, and therefore, can beused to develop an analog or digital signal proportional to flow rate.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2A, in certain embodimentsreservoirs 272, 282, and 292 are further mounted on weight sensitiveplatforms equipped with weigh cells 255, 257, and 259. In suchembodiments, the amount of feed additive in reservoirs 171, 282, and 292can be measured using weigh cells 255, 257, and 259. In suchembodiments, controller 400 is in communication with weigh cells 255,257, and 259 via communication links 261, 263, and 265, respectively.

Turning to FIG. 9, in certain embodiments, Applicants' mobile feedpreparation apparatus further comprises a static mixer, such as staticmixer 902, 904, and/or 906, disposed on the end of exit chute 236. Insuch embodiments, teeth 903, 905, and/or 907 of static mixer 902, 904,and/or 906, respectively, mixes feed 150 and one or more feed additivesdisposed on feed 150 via spray assembly 398 as feed 150 and the one ormore feed additives exits Applicants' mobile feed preparation apparatusvia exit chute 236.

As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, the variousorientations of teeth 904, 905, and 907 of static mixers 902, 904,and/or 906 depicted in FIG. 9 are meant to be illustrative and notlimiting. Applicants' invention is broad enough to encompass anyconfiguration of teeth 904, 905, and 906 capable of mixing a feed and afeed additive sprayed thereon as the feed travels down a chute.

In other embodiments, other types of agitators, both passive and/oractive, may be disposed on the end of exit chute 236 such as, andwithout limitation, a ribbon mixer, a paddle mixer, or a combinationpaddle-ribbon mixer. As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill inthe art, paddle, ribbon, and combination paddle-ribbon mixers arehorizontal mixers comprising paddles or blades attached to a horizontalrotor. In yet other embodiments, an axle with pegs or other protrusionsmay be disposed on the end of exit chute 236. In such embodiments, theaxle may be passive or active.

Referring now to FIG. 4, controller 400 comprises processor 410, memory420 interconnected with processor 410 via communication link 425,optional GPS module 430 interconnected with processor 410 viacommunication link 435, optional RFID module 440 interconnected withprocessor 410 via communication link 445, and optional wirelesscommunication module 450 interconnected with processor 410 viacommunication link 455. By way of example and not limitation, wirelesscommunication module 450 may utilize WI-FI, Blue Tooth, ZIGBEE® (awireless communication protocol by ZigBee Alliance Corp.), RFcommunication protocol or any other wireless communication protocol.

As those skilled in the art will appreciate, GPS module 430 comprises awireless device that receives a plurality of signals from a plurality ofGPS satellites, and determines a location for the GPS device using thatplurality of signals. As those skilled in the art will appreciate,wireless communications module 450 comprises a wireless networkpermitting communication with one or more external computers orprogrammable devices in a network or with point-to-point communications.

In certain embodiments, processor 410 is interconnected by communicationlink 415 to an external data input device, such as and withoutlimitation, a pointing device, mouse, key board, touch screen, and thelike.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4, microcode 422, instructions424, feed delivery database 426, feed additive and ration formulationdatabase 427, feed additive inventory database 428, and feed costdatabase 429 are encoded in memory 420. In certain embodiments, memory420 comprises non-volatile memory. In certain embodiments, memory 420comprises battery backed up RAM, a magnetic hard disk assembly, anoptical disk assembly, and/or electronic memory. By “electronic memory,”Applicants mean a PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, SMARTMEDIA, FLASHMEDIA, and thelike.

Processor 410 uses microcode 422 to operate controller 400. Processor410 uses microcode 422, instructions 424, feed additive and rationformulation database 427 and feed delivery database 426 to operate GPSmodule 430, RFID module 440, wireless communications module 450, augers130 and 140, auger assembly 210, motor 220, delivery assembly 230,measurement devices 252, 254, 256, and 258, and valves 274, 284, and294.

A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that controller400 may comprise one or more computers, microcontrollers,microcomputers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), or similarprogrammable devices in any or all combinations to implement thenecessary programmable logic for Applicants' mobile feed preparationapparatus.

In certain embodiments, Applicants' invention further comprises a feedadditive preparation station. As will be appreciated by one of ordinaryskill in the art, accurately weighing and mixing small amounts of feedadditive while Applicants' feed truck is in motion is difficult. Rather,in certain embodiments, feed additives are specially prepared at a feedadditive preparation location prior to delivery and incorporation withfeed using Applicants' mobile feed preparation mobile feed preparationapparatus. At the feed additive preparation area, feed additives can beaccurately measured and mixed with a carrier to produce a feed additivecomposition having a known concentration and uniform consistency, whichcan then be loaded onto a feed truck for delivery. In certainembodiments, the feed additive preparation area is housed in nearvicinity to the location where base feed 150 is loaded into Applicants'mobile feed preparation mobile feed preparation apparatus.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 7A, feed additive preparationstation 700 comprises a feed additive container 702 connected to adischarge gate 706 capable of discharging a feed additive into liquidsuspension mixing tank 708 having a carrier 709 disposed therein.Container 702 contains feed additive, such as and without limitation, abeta-agonist, a vitamin, a parasiticide, an antibiotic, a probiotic, agrowth promoter, an estrus suppressant, an ionophore, a microbial, anantimicrobial, a nutritional supplement, a larvicide, a mineral, anyother feed supplement, or any combination thereof.

The feed additive may be in the form of a liquid, a solid in the form ofa powder, granular, pelletized, crumbled, or any other solid form orcombination thereof, a gel, or any combination thereof. In certainembodiments, the feed additive is an active ingredient. In certainembodiments, the feed additive is an inactive ingredient.

Feed additive preparation station 700 is described herein in terms of asingle feed additive combined with a liquid carrier. Such a descriptionshould not be taken as limiting. In certain embodiments, one or morefeed additives are combined with one or more liquid carriers to producea feed additive composition. In such embodiments, feed additivepreparation station 700 may comprise multiple feed additive containerseach connected to a discharge gate and discharging into a single mixingtank. Furthermore, while the present invention is described in terms ofa liquid carrier. Applicants' invention is not so limited. In certainembodiments, the carrier is a solid. In other embodiments, the carrieris gelatinous.

In certain embodiments, a feed additive, combination of feed additives,or carriers used, is selected to form and maintain homogeneity of theresulting composition. For example and without limitation, the stabilityof a suspension/emulsion during storage and pumping is considered inselecting a specific feed additive, combination of feed additives,and/or the carrier(s). In certain embodiments, other factors areconsidered in determining the specific feed additive, combination offeed additives, or carrier, such as and without limitation, minimizingviscosity changes with temperature, freezing point of the resultingsuspension, resistance to degradation from environmental elements aswell as microbial growth, palatability, toxicity, ease by which theresulting suspension can be cleaned and disposed of after a spill, FDAapproval, solubility in water or fat, pH level, color, odor,traceability, or any other relevant factor, or combination thereof.

In certain embodiments, the feed additive is combined with a suspensionagent and/or emulsifying agent to form a suspension/emulsion havingimproved handling and/or dispensing ability. In such embodiments thesuspension/emulsion may comprise one or more wet or dry additives incombination with, without limitation, water, corn syrup, cane molasses,beet molasses, citrus molasses, honey, ketchup, milk, cream, yogurt,vegetable oils, fats, glycerol, alcohols, or any combination thereof. Inother embodiments, the suspension/emulsion may further comprisethickening and/or suspension agents, such as and without limitation,guar gum, guar gum with borax, carrageenan, cellulose, agar, diutan gum,gellan gum, locust bean gum, microparticulated whey protein concentrate,pectin, welan gum, xanthan gum, bentonite clay, attapulgite clay, clayflocculating agents (i.e., ammonium polyphosphate), wheat flower,arrowroot, tapioca, starch, maltodextrin, synthetic polymers, or anyother agent or combination thereof. In other embodiments, thesuspension/emulsion may further comprise natural or synthetic lakes anddyes, natural or synthetic flavor or odor enhancers including, but notlimited to, sweeteners such as sugars, aspartame, cyclamate, andsaccharin, monosodium glutamate, flavors such as anise, caramel,licorice, etc., natural and synthetic emulsifiers, stabilizers includinggelatin, wetting agents, pH adjusters such as organic and inorganicacids and bases, salts, and tracers. In certain embodiments, thesuspension/emulsion further comprises a preservative, such as, andwithout limitation, benzoates such as sodium benzoate or benzoic acid,nitrites such as sodium nitrite, sulfites such as sulfur dioxide, orsorbates such as sodium sorbate or potassium sorbate.

In certain embodiments, the suspension agent, emulsifying agent, orcarrier, includes propylene glycol, molasses, whey, a liquid proteinsupplement, or a viscosity modification agent. In certain embodiments,the suspension agent or carrier is a non-aqueous fluid,gelatinous-based, foam-based, solid, or air or another compressed gas.In certain embodiments, the suspension agent or carrier includes one ormore nutritional or non-nutritional feed ingredients or combination ofingredients. In certain embodiments, a base feed 150, or partial basefeed 150 with a high concentration of one or more feed additives isincluded for subsequent blending with base feed 150 without a feedadditive or one with lower concentration of a feed additive, or acombination thereof to produce the required feed additive concentration.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 7A, container 702 isinterconnected with load cell 704 for inventory purposes, calibrating ametering device, or for feeding an ingredient using loss of weighttechniques. In certain embodiments, load cell 704 is secured to asupporting frame.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 7A, discharge gate 706 is mountedat the discharge opening of container 702. When discharge gate 706 isopened, feed additive from container 702 is added to liquid suspensionmixing tank 708, having a carrier 709 disposed therein. In certainembodiments, discharge gate is automatically operable.

In certain embodiments, container 702 and discharge gate 706 are locatedabove mixing tank 708 such that the feed additive can be gravity fedinto mixing tank 708. In certain embodiments, the feed additive is aliquid. In such embodiments, a liquid pump may be employed to pump theliquid feed additive from container 702 into mixing tank 708. In suchembodiments, a flow meter may be further employed to measure the amountof liquid feed additive pumped into mixing tank 708

In certain embodiments, prior to adding the feed additive from container702 into mixing tank 708, a carrier is added to mixing tank 708 from acarrier container 714 attached via supply line 716. In certainembodiments where the carrier is a liquid, a flow meter, such as flowmeter 720, may be used to ensure the proper amount of liquid carrier isadded to mixing tank 708. In other embodiments, the carrier is measuredby weight, by volumetric metering, by conveying for a period of timebased at least in part on an actual or estimated flow rate, bydetermining weight of the feed additive used by loss in weight fromcontainer 702, by determining the increase in weight when added to avessel either alone or along with another feed additive or feedingredient, by volume whereby the feed additive or feed ingredient isadded to a vessel of known volume or a vessel with graduations, or bydetermining the amount or volume using a level sensor or device usingone or a multiple of devices including a photo-detection device,ultrasonic level measurement, capacitance, reflected sound device, orany other similar or dissimilar device used for such measurements, orcombination thereof.

In certain embodiments, the liquid carrier comprises two or moredifferent components. In such embodiments, each component may have itsown liquid carrier container, flow meter, and supply line.

Before, during, or after, the liquid carrier is added to mixing tank708, the feed additive from container 702 may be added to mixing tank708 to produce the desired concentration. In certain embodiments, mixers710 and 712 are active to ensure a proper mix of the feed additive andcarrier. In certain embodiments, mixers 710 and 712 are rotatingpropellers, ribbon mixers, magnets, or any other form of physical mixingdevice, or combination thereof. In other embodiments, other means ofmixing the liquid carrier with the feed additive may be employed, suchas and without limitation, air or other gas blown into mixing tank 708or a periodic or continuous recirculation of the feed additivecomposition.

In other embodiments, reservoirs 272, 282, and 292 (FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3), offeed additive assemblies 270, 280, and 290 (FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3),respectively, disposed in Applicants' mobile feed preparation mobilefeed preparation apparatus, are specifically designed and/or constructedsuch that the motion of the mobile apparatus, while en route, providessufficient agitation to mix a suspension emulsion, and/or keep the feedadditive composition properly agitated.

Mixers 710 and 712 periodically agitate the feed additive composition asnecessary during storage to ensure that one or more feed additivesremain in suspension. In certain embodiments, the feed additive liquidsuspension must be conveyed to mixing tank 708 for mixing. In certainembodiments, a feed additive liquid suspension is conveyed to a holdingvessel for storage prior to loading into Applicants' mobile feedpreparation mobile feed preparation apparatus. In other embodiments, afeed additive liquid suspension is loaded into Applicants' mobile feedpreparation mobile feed preparation apparatus, without prior mixing orstorage.

Turning to FIG. 7B, in certain embodiments, feed additive preparationstation 700 further comprises weighing device 722 for weighing theamount of feed additive being added to mixing tank 708. In suchembodiments, weighing device 722 may comprise a container mounted to aload cell. In such embodiments, the load cell may be a single point loadcell. In certain embodiments, mounted below weighing device 722 may be asecond discharge gate 724 to discharge the feed additive from weighingdevice 722 after it has been weighed.

In other embodiments, the feed additive is measured by volumetricmetering, by conveying for a period of time based at least in part on anactual or estimated flow rate, by determining weight of the feedadditive used by loss in weight from container 702, by determining theincrease in weight when added to a vessel either alone or along withanother feed additive or feed ingredient, by volume whereby the feedadditive or feed ingredient is added to a vessel of known volume or avessel with graduations, or by determining the amount or volume using alevel sensor or device using one or a multiple of devices including aphoto-detection device, ultrasonic level measurement, capacitance,reflected sound device, or any other similar or dissimilar device usedfor such measurements, or combination thereof.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 7B, where the feed additive is adry feed additive, discharge gate 706, weighing device 722, anddischarge gate 724 which may be connected by a sleeve. The sleeve isused to contain the feed additive and/or dust while the additive is fedfrom container 702 or being discharged from weighing device 722 and madeof a flexible material to isolate the weighing device 722 from othercomponents. In certain embodiments, the sleeve is opaque. In otherembodiments, the sleeve is clear to allow viewing of the additive as itis being discharged from container 702 or weighing device 722.

Where the feed additive is a liquid feed additive, in certainembodiments a liquid feed additive concentrate is injected directly intothe liquid carrier flow while refilling a feed truck. Flow meters onboth the liquid feed additive concentrate and the liquid carrier may beused to ensure the proper amount of each liquid component is pumped ontothe feed truck during the refilling process.

Feed additive preparation station 700 is preferably housed adjacent to afeed truck load out area, the location where a feed ration is loadedinto Applicants' mobile feed preparation mobile feed preparationapparatus. As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art,the configuration of a load out area is particular to a given feedyardand may comprise one or more finished feed bins, a surge bin following ascale or mixer, or simply a scale or a mixer that dumps directly intothe feed truck. Some facilities may employ a front-end loader to loadthe feed ingredients directly into a mixer-type feed truck.

In certain embodiments, a feed additive preparation area may contain oneor more feed additive preparation systems. Additionally, in certainembodiments the feed additive preparation area contains one or more of awater source, a pressurized water storage tank with a boost pump if theflow or pressure from the inlet line is not sufficient to supply thepreparation process, an air compressor, feed truck feed additiverecharge lines, automation and control equipment, and bulk ingredientstorage areas.

In the illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 7A and 7B, Applicants' feedadditive preparation station 700 further comprises controller 726comprising processor 728, memory 730 interconnected with processor 728via a communication link, optional wireless communications module 732interconnected with processor 728 via a communication link, and externaldevices 736 such as, but without limitation, a display, keyboard, touchscreen, mouse, indicators, operator controls, etc., interconnected withprocessor 728 via another communication link.

As those skilled in the art will appreciate, wireless communicationsmodule 732 comprises a wireless network communication moduleimplementing a wireless communication protocol such as, and withoutlimitation, WI-FI, BlueTooth, ZIGBEE® (a wireless communication protocolby ZigBee Alliance Corp.) RF, or any other such wireless communicationprotocol.

Microcode 738, instructions 740, and database 742, are encoded in memory730. In certain embodiments, memory 730 comprises non-volatile memory.In certain embodiments, memory 730 comprises battery backed up RAM, amagnetic hard disc assembly, an optical disk assembly, and/or electronicmemory. By “electronic memory,” Applicants mean a PROM, EPROM, EEPROM,SMARTMEDIA, FLASHMEDIA, and the like.

Processor 728 uses microcode 738 and instructions 740 to operatecontroller 726. Processor 728 uses microcode 738, instructions 740, anddatabase 742, to operate wireless communications module 732, peripherals736, discharge gates 706 and 724, mixers 712 and 710, supply line 716,and discharge line 718.

In certain embodiments, controller 726 monitors the feed additiveassemblies, and if the feed additive level in one or more of reservoirs272, 282, and/or 292 (FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3), drops below a threshold value,controller 726 prepares one or more additional feed compositions. Incertain embodiments, controller 726 determines an amount of the feedadditive composition already prepared and waiting in mixing tank 708 andwhether an additional amount needs to be prepared.

In operation, to refill a reservoir, such as reservoir 272, 282, or 292(FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3) or such as reservoir 872 or 882 (FIG. 2C), of a feedadditive assembly, such as feed additive assembly 270, 280, or 290(FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3) or such as feed additive assembly 870 or 880 (FIG.2C), an operator positions Applicants' mobile feed preparation mobilefeed preparation apparatus, adjacent to a feed additive preparationarea. In certain embodiments, a hose is employed to connect the mixingtank of each feed additive preparation station with a reservoir of afeed additive assembly on a feed truck, whereby the feed additivecomposition is pumped into the reservoir. In other embodiments, the feedadditive composition is transferred through the hose and into thecontainer by compressed air, vacuum, or suction. In yet otherembodiments, the feed additive composition is transferred to thecontainer by a mechanical conveyance means such as a screw conveyor. Insuch embodiments, the tubing can be rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible andcan be either hose, tubing, pipe, or other similar structure.

As those skilled in the art will appreciate, it is important for eachfeed additive composition to be loaded into the proper feed additiveassembly on Applicants' mobile feed preparation mobile feed preparationapparatus. In certain embodiments, to ensure that the properinterconnection is made between a mixing tank 708 in a preparation areaand to the proper inlet assembly 390 (FIG. 6) on Applicants' mobile feedpreparation mobile feed preparation apparatus, an inlet pressuresensor/gauge 399 (FIG. 6) monitors an increase in pressure when thedelivery system is pressurized. In such embodiments, inlet pressuresensor/gauge 399 and controller 400 verify that the feed additivereservoir is about to receive a designated feed additive compositionprior to opening initiating the transfer.

In certain embodiments, different feed additive compositions may beconveyed to Applicants' mobile feed preparation mobile feed preparationapparatus, using piping comprising different couplings or adaptors, orcomprising different mechanical dimensions or configurations, wherebythe piping, couplings, or adaptors, will only interconnect a designatedfeed additive assembly reservoir to a designated feed mixing tank 708,thereby mechanically preventing an incorrect transfer of a feed additivecomposition. In other embodiments, an incorrect transfer of a feedadditive composition from mixing tank 708 to a feed additive assembly isprevented by using an electronic interlock employing technologies suchas RF transmissions, RFID, wireless communication, magnetic sensors,electronic visual identification, etc.

In certain embodiments, each container of a feed additive assembly onApplicants' mobile feed preparation mobile feed preparation apparatushas a different size or shape connector which allows only a single hose,or other form of piping, from a single mixing tank 708 to interconnect.Thus, each feed additive assembly reservoir can only receive a feedadditive composition from a designated mixing tank 708 in the feedadditive preparation area.

In certain embodiments, controller 726 of feed additive preparationstation 700 communicates with controller 400 (FIG. 4) of Applicants'mobile feed preparation mobile feed preparation apparatus. In suchembodiments, wireless communications module 732 wirelessly provides tocontroller 400 information, such as and without limitation the type offeed additive in mixing tank 708 and the amount. Such information may beused by controller 400 to, by way of example and not limitation, allowpumping of the feed additive only into a certain feed additive assemblyor to allow only a given amount of the feed additive to be transferred.

After an interconnect between a mixing tank 708 of a feed additivepreparation system and a reservoir of a feed additive assembly has beenestablished and verified, the refilling process can begin. In certainembodiments, Applicants' mobile feed preparation apparatus comprises aninlet pressure transducer and automated inlet valve inline with feedadditive input hose 392 (FIG. 6). In certain embodiments, a pump onmixing tank 708 may start to pump the prepared feed additive into a feedadditive assembly reservoir. Controller 400 (FIG. 4) monitors the inletpressure transducer to ensure that a feed additive composition transferis being made to a correct input assembly. In certain embodiments, eachreservoir of a feed additive assembly, such as reservoirs 272, 282, and292 (FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3), comprises a sensor to monitor the level of feedadditive composition disposed therein. In such embodiments, controller400 sends a command to controller 726 of feed additive preparationstation 700 to stop pumping when the feed additive assembly reservoirhas been filled with a designated amount of feed additive composition.

In certain embodiments, feed additive assemblies 270, 280, and 290(FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3) may be refilled one at a time. In certain embodiments,feed additive assemblies 270, 280, and 290 may be refilledsimultaneously. In certain embodiments, feed additive assemblies 270,280, and 290 are filled to an amount less than capacity.

In certain embodiments, controller 400 (FIG. 4) communicates withcontroller 726 at regular intervals during the refilling process. Incertain embodiments, controller 400 communicates with controller 726continuously during the refilling process. In such embodiments, as asafety precaution, if communication is interrupted while a feed additiveassembly is being refilled, the pump may be automatically disabled andan operator notified.

As will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, to offloadthe feed additive composition in reservoirs 272, 282, and 292 (FIGS. 2A,2B, 3) of feed additive assemblies 270, 280, and 290 (FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3)respectively, the process described above can be reversed. In certainembodiments, feed additive preparation station 700 further comprises apressure transducer and a valve to facilitate the offloading of the feedadditive composition using the correct hose.

In certain embodiments, prior to delivering feed, feed additiveassemblies 270, 280, and 290 (FIGS. 2A and 2B) are calibrated using aloss of weight method while Applicants' mobile feed preparation mobilefeed preparation apparatus is stationary to provide stable weightreadings. In such embodiments, the distribution rate at which eachassembly dispenses a feed additive at various feeding speeds can becalculated by determining a loss of weight of reservoirs 272, 283, and292 (FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3) respectively, over known time intervals. Thus,during delivery, feeding speeds can be varied corresponding with thedelivery rate of feed 150 to incorporate feed additive(s) in the correctproportion. The amount of a feed additive dispensed can be determinedusing the distribution rate and the length of time over which the feedwas dispensed. Further, the amount of feed dispensed may additionally bedetermined by calculating a difference in weight of reservoirs 272, 282,and 292 just prior and subsequent to dispensing.

In operation, an operator positions Applicants' mobile feed preparationmobile feed preparation apparatus adjacent to a designated feeding site.

Applicants' mobile feed preparation apparatus is used to deliverpre-determined feed formulations to various feed bunks, wherein the feedformulation delivered to each bunk may vary. In certain embodiments,controller 400 verifies the feed bunk to be fill with a feed rationusing GPS module 430 and the feeding site location recited in feeddelivery database 426. GPS module 430, using optional antenna 432,determines the actual location of mobile feed preparation apparatus andcompares that actual location to the location for the selected feed bunkrecited in feed delivery database 426. In certain embodiments,controller 400 verifies by receiving a wireless communication from afeed bunk capable of sending wireless RFID communications. In suchembodiments, controller 400 verifies the delivery location using RFIDmodule 440, wherein module 440 emits an interrogating signal andreceives using antenna 442 a response signal identifying the adjacentfeed bunk.

In certain embodiments, the method compares the actual feeding sitelocation with the designated feeding site location recited in feeddelivery database 426. If the actual feeding site location differs fromthe designated feeding site location, the method generates a LocationAlert. The Location Alert is added to feed delivery database 426. Incertain embodiments, controller 400 provides the Location Alert to acentral feed lot server using wireless communications module 450 andantenna 452, and/or to a display device.

In certain embodiments, the method further comprises managing multiplefeed ration types for a single load of feed. In such embodiments,controller 400 may store in feed delivery database 426 one or more feeddelivery routes and feed ration types. In such embodiments, controller400 evaluates the feed ration formulations in feed additive and rationformulation database 427 for each feed ration and may determine a commonsubformulation. By way of example and not limitation, a common Ration Amay be used to formulate several other rations by the addition ofvarious feed additives. Thus, by way of example and not limitation,Ration B may be formulated from Ration A by adding Feed Additive B toRation A. Alternatively, Ration C may be formulated by adding FeedAdditive C to Ration A. A third ration, Ration D, may be furtherformulated by adding both Feed Additives B and C to Ration A. In suchembodiments, controller 400 uses the information in feed additive andration formulation database 427 to produce Rations A, B, C, and D forthe respective delivery locations specified in feed delivery database426 by operating feed additive assemblies 270, 280, and/or 290 (FIGS.2A, 2B, 3) to combine appropriate amounts of Feed Additives B and C withRation A according to the formulations specified in feed additive andration formulation database 427. As this example illustrates, and willbe appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, different feedrations can be delivered to locations specified in feed deliverydatabase 426 from the same load of feed 150 (Ration A in this example)by incorporation of one or more feed additives in the proper proportionsas specified in feed additive and ration formulation database 427 and atthe proper time during the feed delivery process.

As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, feed rationtypes having different concentrations of the same additive may bedelivered in a single load. By way of example and not limitation,Applicants' mobile feed preparation apparatus may deliver both Ration Eand Ration F using the same load of feed. Ration E may comprise a basefeed mixed with 0.1% (wt./wt.) of Feed Additive E, while Ration F maycomprise the base feed mixed with 0.05% (wt./wt.) of Feed Additive E.When delivering Ration E and Ration F, Applicants' mobile feedpreparation apparatus may separately produce Rations E and F or may useRation E to produce Ration F. By way of example and not limitation, incertain embodiments controller 400 operates feed additive assembly 270,wherein reservoir 272 contains Additive E, to combine appropriate anappropriate amount of Feed Additive E with a base feed to make Ration E.Controller 400 may subsequently make Ration E by operating feed additiveassembly 270 to combine the appropriate amount of Feed Additive E withthe base feed. Alternatively, controller 400 may operate feed additiveassembly 270 to produce Feed Additive E and then, where reservoir 282 offeed additive assembly 280 also contains Additive E, operate feedadditive assembly 280 to add an additional amount of Feed Additive E tomake Ration F.

As will further be appreciated, Applicants' mobile feed preparationapparatus may deliver a feed ration type comprising one or more feedration additives and no base feed. By way of example and not limitation,Ration G may comprise only Feed Additive G. In such an embodiment,controller 400 may operate feed additive assembly 270, where reservoir272 contains Feed Additive G, to release an amount of Feed Additive G,which is then deposited in feed bunk 170 (FIG. 1C). In certainembodiments, this may be done alter the concentration or type of thefeed ration currently in feed bunk 170. In such embodiments, controller400 may use feed delivery database 426 to identify the existing feedration type in feed bunk 170 and ration formulation database 427 todetermine the amounts and/or types of additional feed additives todispense to achieve the desired concentration or feed ration type. Byway of example and not limitation, Ration F may have been delivered tofeed bunk 170 at time A and a record of the delivery stored in feeddelivery database 426. Controller 400 may then use ration formulationdatabase 427 to determine the correct additives to dispense to Ration F,already located in feed bunk 170, to change Ration F to Ration G.

In certain embodiments, data stored in feed additive and rationformulation database 427 and feed delivery database 426 may be exchangedwith a central feed lot server using wireless communication module 450and wireless communication antenna 452. In certain embodiments,controller 400 periodically receives from a central feed lot serverwireless updates to the feed delivery schedule to reflect changes incircumstances, such as and without limitation, arrival of new cattle orthe movement of cattle from one feeding location to another. In suchembodiments, controller 400 may display instructions informing thevehicle operator of the modified schedule. In certain embodiments, thevehicle operator may change the delivery order specified by the scheduledue to special circumstances, such as, and without limitation, anobstruction in the delivery route. In certain embodiments, feedingresults information stored in feed delivery database 426 may betransmitted to a central feed lot server.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 5, feed delivery database 426comprises (N) formulations. Referring now to FIGS. 2, 4, and 5, in theillustrated embodiment of FIG. 5, feed delivery database 426 recitesthat, for example, a pre-set quantity of 1000 pounds of feed 150 aretargeted for delivery to the North Feed Bunk. Feed delivery database 426further recites that, for example, 950 pounds were actually delivered tothe North Feed Bunk.

Processor 410 enters the actual delivered amount into feed deliverydatabase 426. In certain embodiments, the actual weight of feeddelivered is wirelessly provided to a central feed lot server usingwireless communications module 450 and antenna 452, and/or to a displaydevice. Further in the illustrated embodiment feed delivery database 426in FIG. 5, the nominal delivery window for delivery of base feed to theNorth Feed Bunk is, for example, +/− ten percent (10%). Because theactual amount delivered, i.e. 950 pounds, is within the pre-determinednominal window of 900 pounds to 1100 pounds, no alert was generated withrespect to the amount of base feed delivered to the North Feed Bunk.

In certain embodiments, to stop the discharge of feed to a feed bunk,the operator signals controller 400 to cease delivery. In certainembodiments, controller 400 uses statistical information to determinethe amount of base feed that will continue to be dispensed subsequent tothe shutdown of the feed conveyor to regulate the remaining flow of feedadditive.

Referring now to FIG. 3, in certain embodiments, after a feed additiveis delivered via feed additive assembly 270, conduit 276, feed additivemanifold 378, and spray assembly 398 are flushed. Similarly, in certainembodiments, after a feed additive is delivered, conduit 286 and/orconduit 296 are flushed. In such embodiments, conduit 271, 281, and/or291 are connected via conduits 310, 320, and 330, respectively todischarge assembly 301, which is further connected to controller 400.

In certain embodiments, controller 400 operates discharge assembly 301to inject pressurized air or other gas into conduits 271, 281, and 291to flush any remaining feed additive in conduits, 276, 286, and/or 296,feed additive manifold 378, and spray assembly 398. In such embodiments,discharge assembly 301 comprises an air compressor. In other suchembodiments, discharge assembly 301 comprises a pressurized vesselhaving pressurized air or other gas therein.

In certain embodiments, controller 400 operates discharge assembly 301to inject pressurized water or other fluid through conduits 310, 330,and 320 to flush any remaining feed additive in conduits, 276, 286,and/or 296 respectively, feed additive manifold 378, and spray assembly398. In such embodiments, discharge assembly 301 comprises a reservoirhaving water or other fluid stored therein. In certain such embodiments,the reservoir is under pressure. In certain such embodiments, thereservoir comprises a piston, wherein the piston applies a force ontothe fluid therein. In certain such embodiments, discharge assembly 301further comprises a pump to exert a force on the water or other fluidwithin the reservoir.

In certain embodiments where discharge assembly 301 is used to flush anyremaining feed additive in conduits 276, 286, and/or 296, feed additivemanifold 378, and spray assembly 398, controller 400 monitors the amountof feed additive flushed as well as the position of mobile feedpreparation apparatus along the feed bunk. In certain embodiments,controller 400 operates discharge assembly 301 when exit chute 236(FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C) is not over a feed bunk. In other embodiments,controller 400 operates discharge assembly 301 while exit chute 236 isover a feed bunk to discharge excess feed additive into the feed bunk.In certain such embodiments, controller 400 verifies that the feed bunkthe excess feed additive will be flushed into is the same feed bunk asthe last feed ration was delivered to.

In certain embodiments, controller 400 causes one or more open valves274, 284, 294, to close while Applicants' feed truck is still deliveringa feed ration comprising one or more feed additives to a designated feedbunk. Based upon the length of the designated feed bunk, and based uponthe forward speed of the mobile feed preparation apparatus, controller400 calculates a time interval in which valves 274, and/or 284, and/or294, are closed, but wherein feed additives are still draining fromconduits 276, and/or 286, and/or 296, into feed additive manifold 378,and wherein feed additives resident in feed additive manifold 378 arestill entering into, and being sprayed from, spray assembly 398 onto abase feed being delivered to the designated feed bunk.

Returning to FIGS. 4 and 5, in certain embodiments, while feed is beingdelivered to the feed bunk, controller 400 visually displays informationto assist the operator in moving mobile feed preparation apparatus alongthe feed bunk at an appropriate speed. In certain embodiments, theinformation includes the amount of feed delivered or remaining to bedelivered and the corresponding progress along the feed bunk traveled.In certain embodiments, such information is displayed graphically. Inother such embodiments, the information is displayed numerically. Incertain embodiments, controller 400 emits an audible alert indicating tothe operator that the operator's speed is too fast or to slow relativeto the remaining feed to be distributed and the length of the feed bunk170 left to travel or when Applicants' mobile feed preparation apparatusis not in proper position to deliver feed to specified feed bunk 170while feed is being discharged into feed bunk.

In certain embodiments, the position of Applicants' mobile feedpreparation apparatus with respect to the feed bunk is determined usingGPS module 430, using optional antenna 432. In other embodiments, theposition is determined using an accelerometer. In yet other embodiments,the position is determined using one or more radio frequency devices, anultrasonic device utilizing time of flight or Doppler shift to determinespeed and/or distance traveled, or one or more photo sensitive devicesto determine position or distance traveled, or any combination thereof.

Further in the illustrated embodiment feed delivery database 426 inFIGS. 4 and 5, Additive A is to be added to the base feed to give aloading of 5 weight percent. In certain embodiments, controller 400determines the weight of Additive A to be added to the base feed usingfeed additive and ration formulation database 427. Controller 400 opensvalve 274, thereby causing Additive A to flow from reservoir 272,through valve 274, through conduit 276, and into the auger assembly 210(FIG. 2A). Measurement device 254 determines the actual amount ofAdditive A added to the base feed delivered to the North Feed Bunk, andprovides that weight to controller 400. In certain embodiments, theactual weight of Additive A added to the base feed is wirelesslyprovided to a central feed lot server using wireless communicationsmodule 450 and antenna 452, and/or to a display device.

In certain embodiments, controller 400 calculates a weight percentloading of Additive A in the base feed using the weights provided bymeasurement devices 252 and 254 (FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3). In certainembodiments, controller 400 then records the actual weight percent ofAdditive A in the base feed into feed delivery database 426. In certainembodiments, controller 400 further determines if the actual loading ofAdditive A is within the nominal window for Additive A. In certainembodiments, the actual weight percentage of Additive A in the base feedis provided wirelessly to a central feed lot server using wirelesscommunications module 450 and antenna 452 for consideration insubsequent feedings.

Similarly, controller 400 calculates a weight percent loading ofAdditive B in the base feed using the weights provided by measurementdevices 254 and 256 (FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3), and a weight percent loading ofAdditive C in the base feed using the weights provided by measurementdevices 256 and 258 (FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3).

As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, while thepresent discussion is presented in terms of a weight percent loading,the formulas for the various feed rations may be provided in any formwith out departing from the scope of the present invention. By way ofexample and not limitation, a feed ration may be described in terms ofgrams per ton of feed. In such an embodiment, feed delivery database 426additionally include a weight per mass measurement of each feedadditive. In such an embodiment, controller 400 determines a mass of afeed additive being added based on the weight provided by measurementdevices 252 and 254 (FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3).

In certain embodiments, controller 400 adjusts the rate at whichAdditive A, Additive B, and/or Additive C is added to the base feedbased upon the actual feed delivery rate and the feed additive flowrate. In such embodiments, controller 400 adjusts the rate at whichAdditive A, Additive B, and/or Additive C is added to the base feed tomatch the actual feed delivery rate.

The nominal delivery window for Additive A at the North Feed Bunk is +/−ten percent (10%). Because the actual 3 weight percent loading ofAdditive A is outside the pre-determined nominal window of 4.5 weightpercent to 5.5 weight percent, in certain embodiments, controller 400generates an Additive A Alert with respect to the amount of added to thebase feed delivered to the North Feed Bunk. The Additive A Alert isadded to feed delivery database 426. In certain embodiments, theAdditive A Alert is provided wirelessly to a central feed lot serverusing wireless communications module 450 and antenna 452, and/or to adisplay device.

Controller 400 similarly determines the loadings of additionaladditives, such as for example Additive B and/or Additive C, using feeddelivery database 426, and opens the one or more corresponding valves,such as valves 284 and/or 294 (FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3). Weigh cells 256 and/or258 (FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3) determine the actual weights of Additives B and C,respectively, added to the feed formulation, and provide those actualweights to controller 400. Controller 400 then calculates the actualweight percent loadings of Additives B and/or C, determines if theactual weight percent loadings fall within pre-set nominal windows, andoptionally generates, records, and provides an alert for Additive Band/or Additive C if the actual loadings are not within the designatedpre-set nominal windows. In certain embodiments, the Additive B Alertand/or Additive C Alert is provided wirelessly to a central feed lotserver using wireless communications module 450 and antenna 452, and/orto a display device.

In certain embodiments, controller 400 updates feed additive inventorydatabase 428 each time a feed ration is delivered. In such embodiments,once measurement device 254 determines the actual amount of an additive,for example Additive A, added to the base feed to make Ration A andprovides the weight to controller 400, controller 400 updates a recordin feed additive inventory database 428. In certain embodiments, therecord may be the total amount of Additive A available for distribution.In other embodiments, the record may be the total amount of Additive Adelivered that day, week, month, or other time interval. In otherembodiments, the record may be the total amount of Ration A delivered oravailable for delivery. In other embodiments, the record may be anyother type of inventory record. In certain embodiments, the updated feedadditive inventory database 428 is then wirelessly provided to a centralfeed lot server using wireless communications module 450 and antenna452, and/or to a display device. In other embodiments, the actual amounta feed additive delivered is wirelessly provided to the central feed lotserver to update an inventory database maintained by the central feedlot server.

In certain embodiments, the total amount of a given feed additive, forexample Additive A, distributed can be reconciled against the totalamount of Additive A delivered according to an inventory database,either feed additive inventory database 428 or an inventory databasemaintained by the central feed lot server. In such embodiments, theremaining feed in each reservoir, such as reservoirs 272, 282, and 292(FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 3) or reservoirs 872 and 882 (FIG. 2C), may beweighed using weigh cells 255, 257, and 259 (FIG. 2A) before and aftereach delivery and compared to the amount of feed delivered according tothe inventory database. In certain embodiments, such reconciliation mayoccur after each time feed is delivered to a feed bunk, when mobile feedpreparation apparatus has returned to the feedmill or central feed lotoffice after distributing feed rations, or at any other time interval.In certain embodiments, if the actual amount delivered is not the sameas the amount of feed delivered according to the inventory database, anIncorrect Feed Delivery Alert is generated. In certain embodiments,controller 400 wirelessly provides the Incorrect Feed Delivery Alert toa central feed lot server using wireless communications module 450 andantenna 452, and/or to a display device. In certain embodiments, theIncorrect Feed Delivery Alert is an audible alert and/or a visualdisplay alert. In certain embodiments, if there is a discrepancy, thefeed bunk which received an incorrectly formulated feed ration can beidentified and subsequently corrected.

As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, by updatingan inventory database, either feed additive inventory database 428 or adatabase maintained by the central feed lot server, with the actualamount of additive delivered after each time a feed additive isdispensed, Applicants' method is able to maintain an up-to-date,accurate inventory. Furthermore, such an up-to-date and accurateinventory database, either feed additive inventory database 428 or adatabase maintained by the central feed lot server, can be used as aquality control check to ensure the actual amount of inventory loss isreasonable in relation to the amount that should have been dispensed toproduce a given feed ration. In certain embodiments, any discrepancybetween the actual inventory loss in relation to the theoreticaldelivery amount for a given ration can be used as a calibration factor.By way of example and not limitation, feeding errors may occur for anumber of reasons including, but not limited to, changes in bulkdensity, temperature influences, humidity, or product settling. In otherembodiments, if there is a discrepancy, the feed bunk the associatedfeed ration was delivered to can be identified such that correctiveaction can be taken.

In certain embodiments, instructions, such as instructions 424 residingin computer readable medium 420, are executed by a processor, such asprocessor 410, to prepare and dispense a designated feed composition ata designated feeding site using Applicants' mobile feed preparationapparatus.

In certain embodiments, the method further includes scanning the animalswithin a particular location. In such embodiments, each animal has anRFID eartag capable of wirelessly sending data to a receiver identifyingthe animal. In such an embodiment, controller 400 using RFID module 440receives a signal from an RFID eartag. In certain embodiments,controller 400 may then determine the approximate location of the animalby determining the location of mobile feed preparation apparatus usingGPS module 430. Alternatively, the location of the animal may beincluded in the data received by controller 400 from the animal'seartag. In such embodiments, controller 400 verifies that the animalswithin a given area are in the proper pen using RFID module 440, whereinRFID module 440 emits and interrogating signal and receives, usingantenna 442, a response signal from one or more eartags identifying theanimals. If an animal is determined to be in an incorrect pen,controller 400 may wirelessly provide to a central feed lot server thelocation of the pen and identifying information for the incorrectlylocated animal using wireless communications module 450 and antenna 452.

In other such embodiments, controller 400 may use the identifyinginformation received from the animal's RFID eartag to adjust the feedration based on the identification of the animals within a given pen. Insuch embodiments, controller 400 verifies the identification of theanimals within a pen using RFID module 440, wherein RFID module 440emits an interrogating signal and receives, using antenna 442, aresponse signal from one or more eartags identifying the animals. Usingfeed additive and ration formulation database 427, controller 400 thendetermines the proper feed ration to be dispensed to the animals.

In certain embodiments, each time a feed ration is dispensed at a givenfeed pen, the amount dispensed and the location of mobile feedpreparation apparatus is wirelessly provided to a central feed lotserver using wireless communications module 450 and antenna 452, and/orto a display device, for billing purposes. In such embodiments, thelocation may be determined using GPS module 430. In other suchembodiments, controller 400 may use wireless communications module 450and antenna 452 to communicate with a transmitter affixed to a feed bunkor pen which transmits the location of that feed bunk or pen. In otherembodiments, each pen or feed bunk is equipped with an RFID tag. In suchembodiments, controller 400 verifies the identification of each pen orfeed bunk using RFID module 440, wherein RFID module 440 emits aninterrogating signal and receives, using antenna 442, a response signalfrom one or more tags identifying the pen or feed bunk.

In certain embodiments, the amount and location of the feed delivery isused by the central server to generate invoices to customers who havecattle housed in the feed yard. In such embodiments, an invoice isgenerated by the central server for the amount of rations delivered tothe customer's cattle. In certain embodiments, different feed additives,and therefore feed ration types, are provided at different costs. Insuch embodiments, controller 400 additionally wirelessly provides to thecentral feed lot server the type of feed ration delivered using wirelesscommunications module 450 and antenna 452. In such embodiments, aninvoice is generated by the central server for the type of feed rationsdelivered as well as the amount. In certain embodiments, controller 400may wirelessly provide the central server the type of feed additivedispensed either instead of or in addition to the feed ration type. Insuch embodiments, an invoice generated by the central server for thetype of feed additive dispensed.

In certain embodiments, delivery of feed rations to different locationswithin the feed yard are associated with different costs. In suchembodiments, the central server uses the amount and location of the feeddelivery provided by controller 400 to generate an invoice that includeslocation-specific fees or discounts. In certain embodiments, variouscustomers may be charged differently for the feeding of cattle. In suchembodiments, the central server may use the location and feed amountprovided by controller 400 to generate an invoice which includescustomer-specific fees or discounts. In other such embodiments,controller 400 verifies the owner of the cattle being fed and wirelesslyprovides the identity to the central feed lot server. In suchembodiments, controller 400 verifies the identification of the ownerusing RFID module 440, wherein RFID module 440 emits an interrogatingsignal and receives, using antenna 442, a response signal from one ormore RFID tags on the pen or feed bunk identifying the owner of thecattle being feed.

In certain embodiments, controller 400 determines a price for the feedration dispensed. In such embodiments, controller 400 uses feed costdatabase 429 to determine a cost for the feed ration delivered. In othersuch embodiments, controller 400 uses feed cost database 429 todetermine a cost for the feed additive used to formulate the feed rationdelivered. In certain embodiments, controller 400 uses feed costdatabase 429 to generate an invoice for the cost of the feed additiveand/or feed ration delivered. In certain embodiments, controller 400wirelessly provides the cost and/or invoice of the feed ration and/orfeed additive to a central feed lot server using wireless communicationsmodule 450 and antenna 452, and/or to a display device.

While the preferred embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated in detail, it should be apparent that modifications andadaptations to those embodiments may occur to one skilled in the artwithout departing from the scope of the present invention.

1. A method of feeding livestock, comprising: weighing a reservoirdisposed in a mobile feed preparation apparatus and containing a feedadditive to determine a first weight; dispensing from the mobile feedpreparation apparatus a feed ration comprising a base feed and the feedadditive; weighing the reservoir to determine a second weight; andcalculating a distributed amount of the feed additive using the firstweight and the second weight.
 2. The method of feeding livestock ofclaim 1, wherein: the mobile feed preparation apparatus furthercomprises a controller; the controller further comprises a wirelessnetwork communication module; the method further comprising wirelesslyproviding the distributed amount of the feed additive to a computingdevice external to the mobile feed preparation apparatus.
 3. The methodof feeding livestock of claim 2, wherein the controller furthercomprises a processor in communication with a first non-transitorycomputer readable medium comprising a first database, wherein the firstdatabase includes a desired quantity of feed additive associated withthe feed ration, further comprising: determining, using the desiredquantity of feed additive and the distributed amount of the feedadditive, if an incorrect amount of the feed additive was distributed;and generating an alert when the incorrect amount of the feed additivewas distributed.
 4. The method of feeding livestock of claim 3, furthercomprising wirelessly providing the alert, when generated, to acomputing device external to the mobile feed preparation apparatus. 5.The method of feeding livestock of claim 2, wherein feed additiveassembly further comprises a totalizer in flowable communication withthe reservoir, wherein said dispensing further comprises measuring,using the totalizer, a metered amount of the feed additive.
 6. Themethod of feeding livestock of claim 5, further comprising wherein saiddetermining further comprises comparing the distributed amount of thefeed additive with the metered amount of the feed additive.
 7. Themethod of feeding livestock of claim 2, wherein feed additive assemblyfurther comprises an auger, wherein the auger is in communication withthe controller, wherein said dispensing further comprises measuring,using the auger, a metered amount of the feed additive.
 8. The method offeeding livestock of claim 7, wherein said measuring further comprisessetting a speed of the auger.
 9. The method of feeding livestock ofclaim 8, wherein said determining further comprises comparing thedistributed amount of feed additive with the metered amount of the feedadditive.
 10. The method of feeding livestock of claim 2, wherein thecontroller further comprises a processor in communication with a firstnon-transitory computer readable medium comprising a first database,wherein the first database includes a first inventory for the feedadditive, the method further comprising updating the inventory with thedistributed amount of the feed additive.
 11. The method of feedinglivestock of claim 10, the method further comprising wirelesslyreconciling the updated first inventory with a second inventory storedon a second non-transitory computer readable medium of a computingdevice external to the mobile feed preparation apparatus.
 12. The methodof feeding livestock of claim 10, wherein the first non-transitorycomputer readable medium further comprises a second database, whereinthe second database includes a price associated with the feed additive,the method further comprising calculating a cost, using the priceassociated with the feed additive, of the distributed amount of the feedadditive.
 13. The method of feeding livestock of claim 12, furthercomprising wirelessly providing the cost to a computing device externalto the mobile feed preparation apparatus.
 14. A method of feedinglivestock, comprising: disposing a first quantity of a base feed onto aconveying assembly disposed in a mobile feed preparation apparatus;spraying the first quantity of the base feed with a second quantity of afeed additive; and dispensing from the mobile feed preparation apparatusthe first quantity of the base feed in combination with the secondquantity of the feed additive.
 15. The method of feeding livestock ofclaim 14, wherein the mobile feed preparation apparatus furthercomprises an exit chute having a first end and a second end, wherein thefirst end is in flowable connection with the conveying assembly, whereinthe method further comprises conveying the first quantity of the basefeed to the exit chute using the conveying assembly.
 16. The method offeeding livestock of claim 15, wherein the mobile feed preparationapparatus further comprises a mixer disposed at the second end of theexit chute, wherein the method further comprises mixing the firstquantity of the base feed with the second quantity of the feed additiveas the first quantity of the base feed and the second quantity of thefeed additive exits the mobile feed preparation apparatus via the exitchute.
 17. The method of feeding livestock of claim 15, furthercomprising spraying the first quantity of the base feed with a secondquantity of the feed additive as the first quantity of the base feed isexiting the mobile feed preparation apparatus via the exit chute. 18.The method of feeding livestock of claim 14, wherein the mobile feedpreparation apparatus further comprises a spray nozzle and a flushingassembly in fluid communication with the spray nozzle, the methodfurther comprising flushing the spray nozzle with a pressurized fluid.19. A mobile feed preparation apparatus, comprising: a feed containerfor storing a base feed therein; a conveying assembly that receives afirst quantity of the base feed from said feed container; a feedadditive assembly comprising a reservoir for storing a feed additivetherein, wherein the feed additive assembly is in flowable connectionwith the conveying assembly; and a controller in communication with theconveying assembly and the feed additive assembly.
 20. The mobile feedpreparation apparatus of claim 19, further comprising a spray nozzle inflowable connection with the feed additive assembly and the conveyingassembly, wherein the spray nozzle.
 21. The mobile feed preparationapparatus of claim 20, further comprising a flushing assembly incommunication with the controller and in liquid communication with thespray nozzle.
 22. The mobile feed preparation apparatus of claim 19,further comprising an exit chute having a first end and a second end,wherein the first end is in flowable communication with the conveyingassembly.
 23. The mobile feed preparation apparatus of claim 22, furthercomprising a mixer disposed at the second end of the exit chute.
 24. Themobile feed preparation apparatus of claim 23, wherein the mixer isstatic.
 25. The mobile feed preparation apparatus of claim 23, whereinthe mixer is active.
 26. The mobile feed preparation apparatus of claim25, wherein the mixer is selected from the group comprising: a paddlemixer; a ribbon mixer; and a combination paddle and ribbon mixer. 27.The mobile feed preparation apparatus of claim 19, wherein said feedadditive assembly further comprises an auger in flowable communicationwith the reservoir, wherein the auger is in communication with thecontroller.
 28. The mobile feed preparation apparatus of claim 27,wherein said feed additive assembly further comprises an eductor,wherein the eductor is in flowable communication with the auger and thespray nozzle.
 29. The mobile feed preparation apparatus of claim 19,further comprising a weight sensitive platform having a weigh cell,wherein the reservoir is mounted on the weight sensitive platform. 30.The mobile feed preparation apparatus of claim 19, wherein feed additiveassembly further comprises a totalizer in flowable communication withthe reservoir.